The last few years have seen prices for all sorts of collectibles explode, but the speculation around Pokémon cards has been extreme. As new people flocked to the scene, prices for the rarest cards skyrocketed and packs for new sets flew off store shelves. The hype was reignited in part by influencers like Logan Paul making content out of opening up packs and bidding on some of the most expensive cards (and occasionally getting scammed). Within the community, collectors on YouTube like Gary Haase have helped drive more attention to the financial aspect of the hobby. Others are just having fun setting their own collecting goals and indulging in a nostalgic part of their childhood.

But this three-fold increase in just one year is truly bonkers. The Illustrator Pikachu is indeed something unique even in the world of Pokémon cards. It was draw by Pikachu’s creator, Atsuko Nishida, and only a few dozen copies were produced as prizes for promo contests in a Japanese magazine. Still, that type of exponential growth recalls the shockingly inflated prices that have recently turned the vintage game collecting world upside down.

Auction houses, card graders, and collectors all have a vested interest in trying to drive up the hype and speculative value around Pokémon cards. That alone isn’t proof of anything untoward going on here, but without knowing the individuals directly involved in the latest bidding war it’s hard not to be sceptical of just what’s going on at the high-end of the market. For those who just want to have fun with Pokémon cards, the latest expansion, Sword & Shield — Brilliant Stars, just came out on February 25.

This article is republished from Gizmodo Australia. Read the original article.